By Adesakin Adefemi
The Nigerian military on Friday inaugurated a general court-martial to try 36 personnel allegedly linked to a plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu, in a case that has drawn tight security and heightened secrecy.
The proceedings commenced at the Scorpion Mess, Asokoro, Abuja, under heavy military guard. The session was held behind closed doors, with authorities citing the sensitive nature of the allegations as reason for restricting access.
Journalists, including accredited defence correspondents who received prior invitations, were barred from the venue. Security operatives also prohibited the use of mobile phones to document the arrival of the defendants.
The 36 accused personnel were transported to the mess in an Army Headquarters Garrison bus at about 8:53 a.m. Their identities and ranks were not disclosed by the Defence Headquarters as of press time.
The court martial, inaugurated by the Defence Headquarters, is expected to determine the culpability of the military personnel under the Armed Forces Act. The charges against them were not publicly read due to the closed nature of the session.
Military sources indicated that the trial is being conducted separately from criminal charges already filed by the Federal Government against civilians allegedly involved in the same plot. Those cases are before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The alleged coup plot, details of which remain classified, is one of the most serious internal security cases involving serving personnel since President Tinubu assumed office. The military has not issued an official statement on the specifics of the accusations.
The decision to hold the proceedings behind closed doors underscores the gravity the Defence Headquarters attaches to the matter. Court martials involving mutiny, insubordination, or conspiracy against constitutional authority are typically treated with strict confidentiality.
Further sittings of the general court-martial are expected in the coming days, though no timetable has been released. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for discipline and stability within the armed forces.
